DarSalam - Downtown

Amazing, nuanced Middle Eastern food in a gorgeous setting. I went with a group and it was a hit. We shared the adis soup (lentils curry soup), veggie platter and kebob platter with beef kebob. The beef kabob was rich and flavorful, and some of the best I've tried. The grape leaf dolma and onion dolma were both distinctive, and loved how it didn't copy the usual format of stuffed grape leaves. Especially the onion dolma, which I've never had before and had such a rich, tomato-y sauce. The service was super friendly, and ambiance and decor really transports you. Especially with the gorgeous, giant murals. A must-try when in Portland.

I came here as part of the Portland Food Tour and this was my FAVORITE spot. Will forever recommend this for anyone looking for delicious middle eastern cuisine in the heart of Portland.Starting off with the inside: the giant mural spans several walls and is so, so beautiful! I felt like I was transported far from Portland. There were some cozy seating nooks as well. We had a pre-set meal with the eggplant stew and kabob rice plate. The stew was literally a hug in a bowl with a delicious medley of veggies inside. Despite having eaten at other places in the food tour beforehand I ate it all up. The kabobs were really delicious too, well cooked and seasonedWe met the owner as well who warmly welcomed us and served us our food. I cant wait to come back to try more!

Short review: If you're thinking about going here, just do it! You won't be disappointed.Longer review: I've had some great Middle Eastern food since I've moved to Portland. However, the dishes and preparation vary between ME regions. I was looking for a place that prepared food in the similar style to my family. That is when I found DarSalam. First off, the place is awesome inside. Beautiful with well placed decorations from Iraq. The seating is comfortable. The music is ambient and not too loud. The people are friendly and (rightfully) proud of their food. They even brought my friend a piece of delicious Baklava with a candle for her birthday. We tried many items on the menu and everything was so delicious. It was prepared in the authentic style of the area. Between us our party had these items:Vegan mezza plate with falafel, Beet salad with yogurt, Khema lamb stew, lamb shank and the mixed grill. It was all so fresh and delicious. The lamb shank was cooked perfectly and was one of the highlights of the meal. They also had one of the most tasteful hot sauces that I've ever had. Even the bread was soft and tasty.We also had the beet margarita and a regional drink called Arak. Arak is unique and if you've never tried it I highly recommend. It is strong though.It is a bit on the higher side price wise but well worth it. 10/10 recommend!

The flavors are rich and pleasing. The atmosphere represents old Babylon. I felt like I took a journey with my taste buds and eyes to the Middle East. Great experience

We had the opportunity to eat at Dar Salam and the food was simply delicious! We were greeted by hospitable and friendly service that suggested options for us to try a variety of menu items. Everything was delicious! From the Dolmas, Baba ghanoush, the mezza chicken, lamb and beef kebobs. All was authentic and delightful! A must try for anyone who appreciates middle eastern and Iraqi style food.We will certainly come back in our next trip to Portland.

Excellent customer service! You can tell the staff here is genuinely committed to providing a great experience. They were very welcoming and took the time to explain the menu thoroughly. The restaurant is located downtown, so parking can be a bit tricky, but there's a lot across the street that only cost $4. The food was delicious, with the chicken perfectly cooked. Plus, they offer halal options too!Clean and great relaxing music/ ambiance:)

I was looking for something slightly different and dinner here really hit the spot. Portions were generous. And the staff was very welcoming.

Yes, yes, a thousand times, yes. This was the best middle eastern food I've ever had. I'm not even a big fan of baba ganoush, but I literally scraped the bowl to get every last bit of it. I wish they had something this good in South Florida! Service was fast and friendly, too. Would highly recommend.

Get the hummus it's amazing! But I did hear that they have another location in Alberta. The food was great, but I don't love going to downtown if I don't need too. We were able to make reservations for a large group.,

First time trying Iraqi food.it was absolutely delicious we had 2 lamb dishes shanks and shredded with rice. A plate with half hummus half tzatziki with bread.a mango drink.and have to order some pistachio baklava it was so good .the place it's nice inside a lot of decoration.the service was excellent they were attentive and very nice.I'll absolutely come back to this restaurant thank you guys